Samsung Refrigerator Not Making Ice But Water Works – What’s Wrong and How to Fix It

If your Samsung refrigerator is not making ice but still dispensing water, you’re not alone. This is one of the most commonly reported issues with Samsung fridges, especially in models with built-in ice makers. The good news is that the water dispenser working tells us a lot — and points us to a few specific parts of the ice-making system to inspect.

In this guide, we’ll walk through:

• What causes Samsung fridges to stop making ice
• What you can check yourself before calling for service
• Step-by-step troubleshooting
• The most affected models
• Fixes that have worked for others
• What to expect if you need parts replaced

If water comes out of the dispenser but the ice maker doesn’t make ice, the problem is most likely not the water supply or filter — it’s something specific to the ice-making assembly.

1. Clogged or Frozen Ice Maker Fill Tube

• Ice blocks the line that fills the ice tray
• Often caused by poor insulation or fluctuating temps

2. Malfunctioning Ice Maker Assembly

• Faulty motor, cracked tray, or jammed gears
• Motor may try to cycle but fail

3. Defective Ice Maker Sensor or Thermostat

• If the unit doesn’t detect the correct temp, it won’t start a cycle
• Sensor failure is common on models with FlexZone drawers

4. Ice Maker Turned Off (accidentally)

• Some models have physical or digital switches
• Can be bumped off during cleaning or moving shelves

5. Improper Freezer Temperature

• Freezer must be 0°F (-18°C) or colder to make ice
• Check internal temp with a fridge thermometer

6. Defective Water Inlet Valve (ice side only)

• There are usually two solenoids: one for water, one for ice
• The water one may work while the ice one doesn’t

7. Frozen Ice Bucket or Jammed Auger

• Ice builds up and jams the auger or delivery path
• Can happen after power outages or partial defrosts

Step 1: Check the Ice Maker Power Switch

• Look for a small on/off switch near the ice tray
• For touchscreen models, go into settings and confirm the ice maker is turned on

Step 2: Inspect the Ice Bucket and Tray

• Remove the bucket and look for frost buildup, jammed cubes, or stuck gears
• If ice is clumped together, defrost the entire unit

Step 3: Test Freezer Temperature

• Place a thermometer inside for 1 hour
• Must be below 5°F (ideally at or below 0°F)

Step 4: Run Ice Maker Self-Test (if supported)

• Most Samsung models let you hold a test button for 5 seconds
• Ice maker will click, rotate, and attempt a fill cycle
• Listen for movement and water sounds

Step 5: Reset the Ice Maker

• Press and hold the reset button (near tray) for 5–10 seconds
• Release when you hear a chime or click

Step 6: Inspect the Fill Tube for Ice Blockage

• Use a flashlight to check the line that feeds the tray
• If frozen, unplug the fridge and carefully melt it with a hairdryer

Step 7: Check for Error Codes

• On digital models, press and hold buttons like “Fridge” + “Power Cool” for diagnostics
• Search your model’s service manual for meaning of codes

These models all share similar ice maker systems, many of which are known for frozen fill lines and failing internal sensors.

• Don’t overfill the freezer — it blocks airflow
• Avoid opening the freezer door repeatedly in humid weather
• Clean the ice bucket and tray every 2–3 months
• Keep the water filter fresh (every 6 months)
• Run the self-test monthly if available

If your Samsung refrigerator is not making ice but is still dispensing water, you’re likely dealing with a frozen line, faulty sensor, or failed ice maker unit — all of which can often be fixed without replacing the entire fridge. Start with simple checks like power, temperature, and blockage. Move on to reset, test mode, and eventually part replacement if needed.

Don’t rush to replace the fridge. Take it step by step, and if you’re stuck, bring in our tech who knows Samsung models.

Still unsure? Drop your model number and symptoms below — someone else might’ve solved the exact same problem already.